This Just In-Spiration: Meet Shari Sweeney

February 15, 2016

Our makers never fail to motivate us, encourage our creativity, and fill us with inspiration. So, when a new design enters our assortment, we’re always excited to learn more about the people behind the product.

When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
Growing up, I was a balanced little person with regard to my creative side and analytical side. One day you could find me performing experiments with my chemistry set and the next, I was enthralled with art forms like drawing and sculpting with clay. As I grew into adulthood, I maintained this balance in college and beyond. While earning my degree in Biological Sciences, I started creating my own bath products for myself as well as friends and family. I went on to become a scientific researcher for nearly a decade, while also living a holistic lifestyle. My balanced background in science and mindful living lead me to where I am today with my bath and body care business. I have the ability to create works of art with my Bath Affirmations yet still be analytical when I’m in my lab developing new products for my business.

What was the most exciting thing about becoming a professional artist?
Life is about the experience and everyday. I have the opportunity to create beautiful experiences with my bath products as well as share them with the world! Also, the ability to live my life and create a living for myself in an authentic manner is beyond amazing.

What does your typical day in the studio look like?
My day starts with letting in the sunshine, a cup of hot herbal tea and a personal affirmation while I write my to-do list in my design studio. While cutting and rolling printed affirmations or filling finished orders for shipment, I’m watching episodes of The Office or Futurama. When I’m in my lab making bath salts or performing a photo shoot, I’m listening to Soulection Radio or a downtempo playlist on Soundcloud. In the evenings, I’m working on the digital side of life such as scheduling social media posts, updating my website, and editing photography.

Is there a trinket, talisman, or other inspirational object you keep near? If so, what is it and what does it mean to you?
My “Gifts of the Goddess Affirmation Cards” deck. Before I start my day, I pull a card randomly and it’s always on point regarding what’s happening at the time. This deck of cards is special because it has helped guide me during the good and not so good times in life.

Imagine you just showed your work to a kindergartener for the first time. What do you think they would say?
They would say “Oooo this is pretty! What’s inside the box? Can I open it?!” Then they would open it and say “It smell so goooood!” while ogling over all of the test tubes and fun things inside.

What quote or mantra keeps you motivated?
“I am worthy of all the abundance life has to offer.” -Truly Aesthetic
When things get tough or I start to doubt myself, this affirmation always helps me feel better and move forward with strength.

The Goods is more than a place to see our products. We’re here to tell the stories behind and beyond what we sell. When you visit our blog, you’ll meet artists, discover uncommon knowledge, immerse yourself in creative design, and get to know the people who keep UncommonGoods going strong.